The state of Rajasthan, or the erstwhile Rajputana, attracts a large number of visitors from all over the world for its fascinating history. Filled with loads of incredible tales that awe visitors to this day. Some say it still has a lot to offer, to be seen, to be discovered. Let’s delve deeper into some of the “lesser known” facts about this fascinating state:
Rajasthan: Hub of World Heritage Sites
Rajasthan is home to magnificent structures, out of which 8 have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Gagron Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, and Keoladeo National Park.
Cities of Colours
Quite a few cities in Rajasthan are recognised by their colours or have rather become synonyms of those. Magnificent city Jodhpur is known as the “Blue City ” because all of its houses are painted blue. In 1876, the Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Ram Singh, passed an edict requiring everyone to paint their homes pink to welcome Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales; and ever since, the city has received the moniker of “Pink City.” Not to forget, Jaisalmer’s name is also influenced by the golden hue of the Thar Desert.
Sun Dial: Jantar Mantar
Sawai Jai Singh II, founder of Jaipur had commissioned the construction of 19 astronomical instruments that make up the Jantar Mantar. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is home to the largest stone sundial in the world.
The Most Haunted Fort: Bhangarh
Situated in the Alwar district, Raja Bhagwant of Amber built the fort of Bhangarh in the sixteenth century. As the legend goes, a Tantrik who allegedly made an attempt to seduce the stunning princess Ratnavati is thought to have cursed the entire village of Bhangarh never to experience any new births, and face destruction.
Mandore: Residence of Ravana’s in-laws
Mandodari, Ravana’s wife, was considered a native of the Rajasthani town of Mandore. It is assumed that their wedding ceremony was held at Ravana Chavri, where the pair made their lifetime commitment. This place was once a capital of the Marwar region as well.
Pushkar: Lord Brahma’s Abode
Do you know, the holy city of Pushkar is home to the only temple in the world devoted to Lord Brahma. For millions of Hindus, visiting Pushkar is the pinnacle of pilgrimages that one must make in order to find salvation.
River Luni
Luni is thought to be the only saline river in this part of the world. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit word Lavanvati, which means “saline river”. Originating from Gujarat’s Kutch region, it travels across the Thar Desert and its salinity content is higher than any other body of water.
The Oldest Mountain Range: Aravalli
Starting from Delhi going all the way to Gujarat State, the state hosts the Aravalli Ranges, counted among the oldest mountain ranges in the world. It is believed to aid in keeping a stable climate, controls the spread of pollution, and is also important for rainfall and soil conservation of the region.
Mt Abu: A Desert Hill Station
In a state known for the mighty Thar desert, there is a hill station called Mount Abu Town. Located at a 1,220 m elevation in the Aravalli ranges, people have travelled there to escape the heat of Rajasthan and the nearby state of Gujarat. Numerous Hindu as well as Jain temples are also located there.
Pokhran: India’s Nuclear test Site
In the Jaisalmer district there is a village called Pokhran. It is also home to the Pokhran Test Range which is managed by the Indian Army. It was constructed around 1974, once the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre received permission.